For Australian families, the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) remains a crucial form of government support, helping with the costs of raising children. In 2026, with updated income thresholds, rate changes, and streamlined online application processes, understanding eligibility and how to claim is more important than ever.
This guide provides a comprehensive, easy-to-follow overview of the Family Tax Benefit for 2026. It covers who qualifies, the different parts of FTB, the payment rates, how to apply online, and tips for maximizing entitlements, ensuring parents and guardians can access the support they are owed.
What is Family Tax Benefit?
Family Tax Benefit is a government payment designed to assist eligible families with the costs of raising children. It is divided into two parts: FTB Part A and FTB Part B, each with its own eligibility criteria, payment rates, and income tests.
FTB Part A is primarily for families with children under 18, offering higher payments for younger children.
FTB Part B targets single-income families or single parents, providing extra support for the secondary parent or sole carer.
Who Qualifies for Family Tax Benefit in 2026?
Residency Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the residency rules. Generally, you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a special category visa and live in Australia. Certain temporary visa holders may be eligible under specific conditions.
Income Test
Family Tax Benefit is income-tested. Payments reduce once the family’s adjusted taxable income exceeds the set thresholds:
FTB Part A: The full payment is available for families with adjusted taxable income below $60,000 per year, with a reduced rate applying up to $108,750.
FTB Part B: The secondary earner must earn less than $5,268 per year to receive the maximum payment, reducing as income increases.
Child Age & Number
FTB Part A: Covers children under 19 if they are in full-time secondary study, or younger children without schooling requirements.
FTB Part B: Provides additional support for families with one or more dependent children under 18, with higher payments for younger children.
Care Responsibilities
Applicants must have primary care of the child. Shared care arrangements may reduce the amount of FTB received, depending on the time the child spends with each parent.
People Also Love: First Home Buyer Schemes 2026: Grants, Guarantees & Eligibility
How Much Can Families Receive?
FTB Part A Payment Rates 2026
Child under 13: Maximum $227.36 per fortnight
Child 13–15: Maximum $270.00 per fortnight
Child 16–17 (in full-time study): Maximum $318.00 per fortnight
Payments reduce gradually if income exceeds the income threshold. Higher payments are available for children with disability or additional care needs.
FTB Part B Payment Rates 2026
Primary carer with a child under 5: Maximum $193.34 per fortnight
Primary carer with a child 5–18: Maximum $135.42 per fortnight
FTB Part B targets single-income families or sole parents, providing an additional income supplement to ensure family stability.
Other Supplements & Top-Ups
Multiple Birth Allowance
Families with twins or higher multiples receive a one-off payment per child born beyond the first.
Rent Assistance
Families renting in the private market may qualify for Rent Assistance, an additional payment on top of FTB. Payment depends on rent paid and family composition.
Child Disability Supplement
Children with severe disabilities may qualify for extra payments through FTB to help cover additional costs.
How to Apply Online for Family Tax Benefit
Step 1: Set Up a myGov Account
To apply online, families need a myGov account linked to Centrelink. This secure portal allows users to submit applications, track payment progress, and report income changes.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Access Family Tax Benefit under the ‘Payments’ section.
Provide details about children, income, care arrangements, and living situation.
Upload supporting documents (e.g., birth certificates, proof of income).
Step 3: Submit & Track
Once submitted, families can track their application status, respond to requests for more information, and view upcoming payments.
Tips for Maximizing Entitlements
Report income accurately: Ensure you report your adjusted taxable income correctly to avoid overpayment or underpayment.
Consider shared care adjustments: If children spend time with another parent, the system will calculate FTB based on care percentage.
Check eligibility for supplements: Extra allowances like Rent Assistance or Child Disability Supplement can significantly increase your total payment.
Update circumstances promptly: Life changes, like marriage, separation, or a new job, must be reported to maintain compliance and avoid debt.
Changes & What to Expect in 2026
Payments are indexed twice a year (March and September) to adjust for inflation and cost of living.
Income thresholds and payment rates may increase slightly to account for inflation, ensuring support remains effective.
Families should regularly review eligibility, especially after changes in income, care arrangements, or living situations.
Call to Action
Families planning to claim or update their Family Tax Benefit for 2026 should share this guide with other parents, subscribe for updates on threshold changes, and comment with questions about eligibility or payments. Staying informed ensures families receive the full support they’re entitled to.
Ending Thoughts
Family Tax Benefit 2026 provides crucial financial support to families across Australia, helping with child-rearing costs, rent, and additional needs. Understanding eligibility, payment rates, and how to apply online ensures parents and guardians can make the most of this assistance.
By keeping track of income thresholds, age limits, and supplements, families can confidently navigate the system. Using tools like myGov makes applying and managing payments simpler, while timely reporting of changes avoids overpayments or debts. Families who stay informed about FTB can plan better, reduce financial stress, and make the most of government support available in 2026.
See Also: Centrelink Payments 2026: Rates & Eligibility — Quick Guide
